Sara Bareilles is a double nominee (best female pop vocal performance and album of the year) at this year's Grammy Awards, but to many people, she's still relatively under the radar. As one of biggest underdogs in her categories — she's up against Taylor Swift [1], Daft Punk, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and Kendrick Lamar for album of the year — she may not be the safe bet, but we're still rooting for her this Sunday. It's not just because her nominated song ("Brave") is incredible and worth the attention for more than just that "Roar" controversy with Katy Perry [2], and it's not just because her album (The Blessed Unrest) is certainly one of the best of the year. Bareilles is long overdue for a win after a decade in the industry and two previous nominations, and this is arguably her best album to date. Plus, it doesn't hurt that she's basically the Jennifer Lawrence [3] of the music world.
Keep reading to see why we're rooting for her, and you're welcome in advance for your new favorite album.
Her Reaction to Her Grammy Nomination Was Amazing
Bareilles didn't even watch the Grammys nominations ceremony, because she didn't think she would be recognized, but when she found out, she reacted accordingly on Twitter [5] — ending with this adorable photo.
She's Long Overdue For a Grammy
This is "Love Song," one most people are familiar with, but did you know it was a tell-off to the music industry, because she didn't want to write a love song to be successful? Joke's on them now. In total, Bareilles has four Grammy nods — song of the year for "Love Song," "King of Anything," and "Brave" and album of the year for The Blessed Unrest. It's about time she takes home a trophy.
She Cowrote "Brave" in Two Hours With Jack Antonoff
The first time that Jack Antonoff — member of the band Fun. and Lena Dunham's boyfriend — sat down with Sara, they wrote "Brave" in two hours [7].
Somehow, the Video For "Brave" Was Even More Amazing
Directed by Parks and Recreation star Rashida Jones, the video and its song became an anthem for the LGBT community last year. The lyrics were partially inspired by a gay friend's struggle to come out as well as Bareilles "wanting to make strong, courageous moves."
Every Song on The Blessed Unrest Is Amazing
Listen to her next single, "I Choose You," and try to say that she doesn't deserve album of the year.
Not Enough? Here's Another Track: "Chasing the Sun"
Seriously: album. of. the. year.
Her Lyrics Are Absolutely Incredible and Heartwrenching
This is just one of her many astounding lyrics. And better yet . . .
Try Not to Cry While Listening to Her A-Capella Version of "Gravity"
Those lyrics plus her emotional delivery can make a grown man cry. This song isn't from The Blessed Unrest, but we just had to include it.
She Can Go Toe to Toe With Her Friend Taylor Swift
Singing, dancing, you name it. They're up against each other for album of the year, but it's better when they collaborate. Can they make an album together, please?
She's Totally Unfiltered
This isn't necessarily about her music, but Bareilles is a completely unfiltered gem. Don't you want to hear her acceptance speech?
She's Basically the Jennifer Lawrence of the Music Industry
They should be best friends, so they can snack at award shows together.
Need More Proof? This Girl Knows How to Make Everything Fun
If you don't love her after watching this video, then we don't know what to tell you. Unfiltered, hilarious, sweet, and endearing, she's the total package.
We're Rooting For You, Sara! Good Luck on Sunday
